The first results of a new, comprehensive effort to improve campus
signs and create an improved system to help people find their way around campus
will come next month with the introduction of new parking signs in selected
areas.

An accumulation of signs installed over time resulted in confusion for people
using campus lots, said Nadesan Permaul, director of Transportation and
Emergency Planning.

"One of my first goals when I took this job was to clear up that confusion,"
he said.

The new signs were developed by Parking and Transportation in conjunction with
the Campus Sign Committee, a group of more than a half-dozen campus departments
coordinated by the Physical and Environmental Planning Office.

A final report on a proposed new campus sign and "wayfinding" system is due
out soon.

For now, though, the new parking signs provide the flavor of the new
approach.

The new signs should immediately let parkers know they've arrived on the
Berkeley campus, clearly explain who may use the parking lots and at what
times, and generally be more welcoming, said Permaul.

Eventually all the signs will be lighted and accompanying information will
assist people in reaching their campus destination, he said.

At the same time, he said, the newer, more appealing signs "should enhance the
look of campus."

The signs were developed by the sign committee with the assistance of
consultants from Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.

Test signs were installed in Dwinelle, West Anna Head, and the University Hall
parking areas in September and December.

"We invited a broad range of reviews from campus parking constituents and
interested groups, including folks from the City of Berkeley," said Permaul.
Focus groups and surveys were both used.

The first phase of new signs will be installed on the south side of campus, at
the east and west gate kiosks, and the ASUC parking garage.

The installation is expected to be completed in January and will not disrupt
parking in those areas, say parking officials.

Questions about the new parking signs may be directed to Terri McWilliams,
manager, Parking and Transportation, 643-9362.